Alexandria, LA, (April 16, 2025) – Rapides Parish Library (RPL) is excited to announce the launch of a new health initiative aimed at empowering residents to take charge of their heart health. Starting Monday, April 21, blood pressure monitor kits will be available for checkout at all RPL branches—offering community members a convenient, cost-free way to monitor their blood pressure at home.
High blood pressure is one of the leading risk factors for heart attacks and strokes. According to a 2021 Community Health Needs Assessment by the Rapides Foundation, in Rapides Parish alone, almost half of all adults have high blood pressure (47.2% versus 36.9% across the US). It’s often referred to as the “silent killer,” because it can do damage to a person’s health without any symptoms.
The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to have it checked. For those already diagnosed, home monitoring can be a vital part of managing the condition and sharing readings with a healthcare provider. For those undiagnosed, monitoring daily can help to get an accurate average of your blood pressure and identify any patterns you can share with your provider to determine your treatment needs.
“We’re proud to continue to expand our offerings beyond books and technology to include life-saving tools that support everyday wellness and improve the quality of life for our community,” said Celise Reech-Harper, Director of Rapides Parish Library. “”Rapides Parish Library is dedicated to helping patrons, especially those with limited resources or access to healthcare, take control of their health. We’re always exploring new and innovative ways to make that happen — from offering Telehealth Kiosks at branches for convenient virtual healthcare access, to our newest resource: blood pressure monitors available for checkout.”
Program Details:
- Available Starting: Monday, April 21, 2025
- Where: All branches of the Rapides Parish Library
- How to Check Out: Inquire at the main desk during regular business hours
- Checkout Period: 14 Days
What’s Included in Each Kit:
- Digital blood pressure monitor
- Blood pressure cuff
- Easy-to-follow instructions
- Batteries
Kits are intended
Kits are intended for personal monitoring and are not meant for diagnostic or emergency use. Library staff can assist with general questions about the kits but cannot provide medical advice. Borrowers must be at least 18 years old, in good standing, and have a valid library card.
This program was made possible through the generous support of Forth Insurance Company in Monroe, with special thanks to agent Shelby Sims, who played an instrumental role in securing funding for the donation of blood pressure cuffs and monitors.
To learn more or to reserve a kit, visit your local RPL branch or go to www.rpl.org.
The Rapides Parish Library provides equitable access to exceptional services, educational resources, and community engagement opportunities for all residents of Rapides Parish. With a wide variety of physical and digital materials, as well as dynamic programs and events, RPL remains a central hub for learning, creativity, and connection in Rapides Parish.Promoting literacy, guiding discovery, changing lives… for all.
For more information, please contact Sandie Flynn Buller at [email protected] or 318-445-6436 x1007.
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